“Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division along with partners in the National Wildlife Crime Unit acknowledge the sentence given to Keith Liddell today in what was possibly the largest wildlife crime case in Scotland involving the illegal possession and trading of rare birds’ eggs.

The intelligence led operation, which saw the home of Liddell being searched under warrant on 24 June 2009, saw more than 2,300 eggs seized, most of which were concealed behind a false bookcase.

Wildlife Crime Officer for Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division, Constable Aros Mathieson said: “Extensive work has gone into this case in bringing the individual to justice for such organised crimes against our wildlife, involving police and civilian staff from three former police forces, the Scottish Police Services Authority (now SPA), the National Wildlife Crime Unit, Animal Health, and the RSPB.

“This trading enterprise in wild bird eggs was no amateur affair, with contacts worldwide and eggs posted across international boundaries. Thankfully the intelligence gained through this investigation has led to a number of foreign investigations and prosecutions.

“Of the thousands of eggs found, the species concerned are some of the rarest both nationally and internationally, and included Osprey, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Black Throated Diver, Slavonian and Black Necked Grebe. All eggs taken from the wild can have disproportionate consequences for such fragile breeding populations.

“This case amply demonstrates that Police Scotland is committed to wildlife crime and the preservation of our natural heritage for all. Make no mistake that the persecutors of wildlife shall be rigorously pursued, prosecuted and perhaps imprisoned. ”

In response to the sentence, the Head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit, Nevin Hunter, said: “Collecting wild bird’s eggs is an offence the Police are very familiar with and continue to address through Operation Easter which was launched for 2013 only last month.

“However, the trading in eggs over the internet is an area of crime we are rapidly learning about and these enquiries have sparked international investigations in other countries. It is anticipated that further egg collectors within the UK will be identified in time as the investigation continues to evolve.

“Today’s sentence demonstrates that unlawful possession and trading of wild bird’s eggs will not be tolerated and can have serious repercussions.”

Constable Mathieson furthered: “Can I remind the public that the egg collecting season is now upon us.”